We like to think of hearing aids as being indestructible machines of magic, immortal and as perfect in year five as they were on day one. But the reality is that hearing aids are more like your car: you have to take care of them to make sure they keep taking care of you. That includes getting tune-ups and repairs. But how? And where? Here are some steps to follow when it comes to hearing aid repairs.

Go back to your audiologist

Start with where you actually received your hearing aid. Most audiologists can perform simple repairs onsite and the fix may even be covered by the warranty. If your hearing aid is severely damaged, chances are it will need to be sent back to the manufacturer for repairs. The good news is your audiologist can handle this process for you.

Avoid cheap or quick fixes

There are a number of hearing aid repair centers offering seemingly good deals, but if you can take your device to your audiologist you should. Hearing aid repair centers aren’t familiar with your hearing loss and your particular situation, so while it may seem like you can save money, you may end up with a larger headache in the long run.

Make a list of questions

If your hearing aids require repairs, talk through the process with your audiologist. How much will the repairs cost? Are you devices under warranty? Can they provide a free estimate for repairs? Would it be better to replace your device rather than spend money on expensive repairs? Having your hearing aid repaired can feel overwhelming because it’s a process you’re not used to, so be sure to ask any questions you may have regarding what your audiologist is doing.

Provide details

The less troubleshooting your audiologist has to do, the more likely it is you will get your hearing aid back good as new – and more quickly, too. So be sure to tell them specifically what is wrong with your hearing aid and why you’re getting it repaired; the more detailed, the better. So don’t be shy or quiet. Just as with medical doctors, the more information you give, the higher quality of care you’re likely to get in return.

Hearing aid repairs can feel stressful because it’s difficult to be without your devices once you’re used to them. Talk to your audiologist about what you can expect during the repair process and any tips or tricks to make it easier on you and your ears!